Register Your Business in Any US State: LLC, Corporation, Nonprofit, and Sole Proprietorship
Quick Answer
Business formation is the process of legally registering your business with your state. The four main business structures in the US are: LLC (most popular for small businesses, flexible, liability protection), C Corporation (best for startups raising investment capital), S Corporation (C-Corp with pass-through taxation, limited to 100 US shareholders), and Sole Proprietorship (simplest structure, no liability protection). Most small business owners choose an LLC for its combination of liability protection and tax flexibility. Brendat handles all four structures in all 50 states starting at $0.
Whether you are registering an LLC, a corporation, a nonprofit, or a DBA, Brendat handles every step of your business formation across all 50 US states. Starting at $0.
Choose the Right Business Structure: LLC, Corporation, Nonprofit, or Sole Proprietorship
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Starts at $0 + state filing fees
Great for small businesses and partnerships looking for liability protection, flexible tax options, and simple compliance. Learn more about LLC formation.
Start My LLCCorporation (S corp or C corp)
Starts at $0 + state filing fees
Ideal for businesses planning to raise capital or scale nationally. Includes more formal structures and potential tax advantages. Discuss more with experts.
Start My CorporationNonprofit (501c3)
Starts at $0 + state filing fees
Perfect for mission-driven organizations. Includes IRS recognition and exemption support. Feel free to discuss more with our agents.
Start My NonprofitSole Proprietorship
Starts at $0 + state filing fees
A basic structure for individuals starting small. Fast to set up but offers no personal liability protection. Consider an LLC for liability protection with similar simplicity.
Start My DBAHow Much Does Business Formation Cost?
Costs vary by entity type and state. LLC state filing fees range from $35 (Montana) to $500 (Massachusetts). Corporation filing fees are similar. Nonprofit filing fees range from $25 to $150 plus IRS Form 1023 ($275 to $600). Sole proprietorships and DBAs typically cost $10 to $100 in county or state fees. Add Brendat's service fee starting at $0 (Basic) or $150 (Standard). Use our free LLC Cost Calculator to compare exact costs across all 50 states.
All Business Types at a Glance
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Why It Stands Out
Flexible management structure. No board of directors required
Unlimited owners (“members”) allowed
Works for small startups to larger growing companies
Protections & Tax Benefits
Members are not personally liable for business debts or lawsuits
Option to choose how you’re taxed, pass-through or corporate
Things to Keep in Mind
Requires ongoing state filings and compliance fees
Not recognized globally. May be taxed as a corporation in some countries
Ready to Register Your LLC in the US?
100% Accurate Filing Guarantee
We're committed to the highest quality and accuracy. If your filing is rejected or contains errors due to our mistake, we will correct it with the state at no additional cost.
Documents Required for Business Formation in Any US State
What You'll Need to Get Started
Starting a business in the United States requires preparing and filing certain legal documents, depending on the type of entity you choose: LLC, corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. While requirements vary by state, the following are the most common documents you'll need:
- Articles of Organization or Incorporation
Filed with the Secretary of State (or equivalent authority), this document officially creates your LLC or corporation and outlines basic details such as business name, address, purpose, and registered agent.
- Operating Agreement or Bylaws
An LLC Operating Agreement or corporate Bylaws sets out ownership rights, management responsibilities, voting procedures, and profit distribution rules. While not always required by law, they are essential for preventing disputes.
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Issued by the IRS, an EIN is required for tax purposes, hiring employees, and opening a business bank account.
- Business Licenses and Permits
Depending on your industry and location, you may need state, federal, or local business licenses (such as sales tax permits, health permits, or professional licenses).
Formation Documents
Business Registration Services
Additional Documents
- Registered Agent Consent Form
Most states require you to designate a registered agent with a physical address in the state to receive legal documents on behalf of your business.
- Partnership or Shareholder Agreements
If forming a partnership or corporation with multiple owners, these agreements outline each party’s rights, obligations, and procedures for resolving disputes or transferring ownership.
- Trade Name Registration (DBA)
If you plan to operate under a name different from your legal entity name, you'll need to file a “Doing Business As” DBA registration with the appropriate state or county authority.
- Initial & Annual Reports
Some states require initial reports shortly after formation and annual reports to keep business information current with the state.
Start Your Business Today
Choose your entity type and state to begin the formation process.
How Brendat's Business Formation Process Works
Want expert support along the way? Choose our Standard or Premium package to speak directly with a business formation specialist. Our business formation services have made things simple:
Choose Your Business Type
Select the right structure: LLC, Corporation, or Nonprofit.
Tell Us About Your Business
We’ll gather the necessary details to file your paperwork correctly.
We File With the State
We handle your business registration, name search, and compliance documents.
Receive Your Documents
Get your formation certificate, EIN, and legal paperwork, ready to do business in the US.
Not Sure Which Business Structure Is Right for You?
Many new business owners rush into registration without fully understanding their entity type, licensing requirements, or liability exposure. Brendat's formation specialists help you choose the right structure, ensure state compliance, and set up your business correctly from day one.
What we help with:
- Choosing between LLC, C-Corp, S-Corp, Nonprofit, or Sole Proprietorship
- Drafting or reviewing your operating agreement or bylaws
- Identifying licensing and permit requirements for your industry
- Ensuring compliance with state and federal registration requirements
With Brendat, you're not just filling out forms—you're building a compliant, future-ready business with expert support. Starting with professional guidance ensures you're set up for success, with clarity and confidence every step of the way.
Schedule A Consultation
with a Business Formation Specialist
Business Formation: Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an LLC and a corporation?
Both protect owners so they're not personally on the hook for business liabilities or debts. But, key differences include how they're owned (LLCs have one or more individual owners and corporations have shareholders) and maintained (corporations generally have more formal record-keeping and reporting requirements). Even though LLCs are considered easier to start and maintain, investors tend to prefer corporations. You can compare LLC vs corporation to see which structure fits your goals.
What’s the difference between a C corporation and an S corporation?
C corporations are taxed at the corporate level and shareholders pay taxes on dividends, resulting in double taxation. S corporations allow pass-through taxation where profits go directly to shareholders’ personal tax returns. S corporations have restrictions on the number and type of shareholders.
What’s the main difference between a sole proprietorship and an LLC?
A sole proprietorship offers no liability protection—your personal assets are at risk. An LLC separates your personal and business assets, providing liability protection while still being relatively simple to manage.
How are different business types taxed?
LLCs typically use pass-through taxation. C corporations face double taxation. S corporations enjoy pass-through taxation with some restrictions. Sole proprietorships report business income on personal tax returns.
Which business types give me personal liability protection?
LLCs, C corporations, and S corporations all provide personal liability protection, separating your personal assets from business debts and lawsuits. Sole proprietorships do not offer this protection.
How do I choose the right business structure?
Consider factors like liability protection needs, tax preferences, number of owners, growth plans, and administrative requirements. Our business formation specialists can help you evaluate each option based on your specific situation.
Our Reviews
What our customers are saying?
"Formed an LLC for my consulting business in 3 days. Brendat handled the Articles of Organization, EIN, and registered agent. Flat fee with no surprises."
Samantha P.
LLC Formation, Georgia
"Filed a C-Corp for our startup. Brendat prepared the Articles of Incorporation and corporate kit. Investors appreciated everything being properly structured from day one."
Carlos M.
C-Corp Formation, Texas
"Started a nonprofit with Brendat and applied for 501(c)(3) status. The checklist they provided made the IRS application process much less intimidating."
Nell C.
Nonprofit Formation, Florida
Questions? Talk to a Specialist
Get expert support for formation and compliance questions from our team.
Have a Question? We Are Here to Help.
Whether you have a question about which entity to choose or need help with a specific state requirement, Brendat's formation team is available Monday to Saturday, 8AM to 8PM CT.
- 50 State Filing Compliance
- Registered Agent Service Included
- Fast Transparent Service